### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **lâqaṭ**, represented by `{{H3950}}`, is a primitive root that means to pick up, gather, or specifically, to glean. It appears 37 times across 34 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning ranges from the general act of collecting items to the specific, legally mandated practice of allowing the poor to gather leftover crops.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3950}}` is used in several significant contexts. It is central to the account of God providing manna from heaven, where the Israelites were commanded to **gather** it daily [[Exodus 16:4]]. The concept of gleaning is a key application, established in the Law which commands landowners not to wholly reap their fields but to leave the gleanings for the poor and the stranger to **gather** [[Leviticus 19:9]]. This principle is famously illustrated in the story of Ruth, who goes to the field to **glean** ears of corn [[Ruth 2:2]]. Beyond agriculture, the word is also used for collecting objects like stones [[Genesis 31:46]], wood [[Jeremiah 7:18]], and money [[Genesis 47:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context in which gathering and gleaning occur:
* `{{H7114}}` **qâtsar** (to ... reap): This word describes the primary act of harvesting. The law concerning gleaning is given in the context of when one reaps (`qâtsar`) the harvest, instructing them not to gather (`lâqaṭ`) everything [[Leviticus 23:22]].
* `{{H5800}}` **ʻâzab** (to ... leave): This term is crucial to the practice of gleaning, signifying the act of intentionally leaving something behind. The law commands that leftover grapes should be left (`ʻâzab`) for the poor, who would then gather (`lâqaṭ`) them [[Leviticus 19:10]].
* `{{H622}}` **ʼâçaph** (to gather for any purpose): A broader term for gathering, it is sometimes used alongside `lâqaṭ` to show a comprehensive action. In her request, Ruth asks to glean (`lâqaṭ`) and gather (`ʼâçaph`) after the reapers [[Ruth 2:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3950}}` is significant, highlighting God's character and his expectations for His people.
* **Divine Provision:** The daily gathering of manna illustrates God's faithful provision and Israel's dependence on Him. Each person was to **gather** according to their need, and on the sixth day, they gathered a double portion ([[Exodus 16:18]], 16:22).
* **Social Justice:** The laws of gleaning are a cornerstone of biblical social welfare. The command for the poor to be allowed to **gather** what is left from the harvest ensures that the most vulnerable members of the community are provided for [[Leviticus 23:22]].
* **Prophetic Restoration:** The word is used figuratively to describe God's promise to restore His people. In a future day, the Lord will bring back the children of Israel, and they shall be **gathered** one by one [[Isaiah 27:12]].
* **Divine Judgment:** The term can also reflect judgment. King Adonibezek, after his defeat, recognized God's requital in his own fate, as seventy kings had **gathered** scraps of food under his table just as he was forced to do [[Judges 1:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3950}}` is far more than a simple verb for picking things up. It connects the physical act of collecting items to profound themes of divine provision, social responsibility, and redemptive restoration. From the miraculous gathering of manna in the desert to the compassionate practice of gleaning in the fields, **lâqaṭ** shows how a simple action can embody core principles of faith and justice within the biblical worldview.
TRV